The Backstory: Thanks to my Dad, I was always a "gun guy" growing up. After graduating from college in 1976, getting my first real job in 1977, and making some decent money, I decided in 1978 that it was time to purchase my first handgun. Although it was the peak of Dirty Harry days (and Model 29s were as scarce as hen's teeth), I really liked the idea of a .41 Magnum so I purchased a brand spankin' new 4" Model 57 from a local gun shop. It was beautiful, and came with the mahogany presentation case. At the same time my roommate purchased a new 6" Colt Python. We put a lot of rounds through those revolvers, and even started handloading with an RCBS loading press kit that I bought. Unfortunately, later that year someone broke into our apartment and stole both revolvers. All I had left was the presentation case. Over the next 20+ years my gun collecting was put on hold for a wife, two sons, a house, work travel, etc. But eventually, I was in a position to begin to acquire some vintage S&W revolvers- primarily .357 and .44 Magnum N-frames. I never replaced my Model 57, but often thought about it. I even had Joe (jcelect) replace the liners and reline my mahogany presentation case a few years ago.
Present Day: I began to search in earnest for a Model 57. I watched GB to get an idea of prices, and was astounded at how high those online prices were getting. I wanted to see what prices were being paid face-to-face, so I began to frequent some gun shows. Yesterday I visited a local show, and was disappointed to see only a few big bore N-frames. There were two 4" Model 29-2s, one in rough shape, selling for $1500 and $1750! As I was getting ready to walk out, I saw a table in the back of the show where a local pawn shop was set up. I spotted a nice 4" nickel Model 57 hidden amongst a dozen other revolvers. They had a price of $1500 + tax on it, which IMHO was too high, so I just walked away. However, I kept thinking about it and decided that it couldn't hurt to go back a dicker a little. I looked it over and it was minty, and ca. 1980 (about the same as the one I had stolen)- they asked me to make an offer and I tossed out $1200 OTD. To my surprise, they accepted. So, after 40+ years, I have my replacement Model 57. Finish is excellent with barely a turn ring on the cylinder, mechanically perfect, and the stocks are very nice. I think I did OK on this one, and I already have its presentation case! Later today I'll get it cleaned and waxed and take a few better pictures. Happy day!
Present Day: I began to search in earnest for a Model 57. I watched GB to get an idea of prices, and was astounded at how high those online prices were getting. I wanted to see what prices were being paid face-to-face, so I began to frequent some gun shows. Yesterday I visited a local show, and was disappointed to see only a few big bore N-frames. There were two 4" Model 29-2s, one in rough shape, selling for $1500 and $1750! As I was getting ready to walk out, I saw a table in the back of the show where a local pawn shop was set up. I spotted a nice 4" nickel Model 57 hidden amongst a dozen other revolvers. They had a price of $1500 + tax on it, which IMHO was too high, so I just walked away. However, I kept thinking about it and decided that it couldn't hurt to go back a dicker a little. I looked it over and it was minty, and ca. 1980 (about the same as the one I had stolen)- they asked me to make an offer and I tossed out $1200 OTD. To my surprise, they accepted. So, after 40+ years, I have my replacement Model 57. Finish is excellent with barely a turn ring on the cylinder, mechanically perfect, and the stocks are very nice. I think I did OK on this one, and I already have its presentation case! Later today I'll get it cleaned and waxed and take a few better pictures. Happy day!
...Ben
...Ben
